The company was founded in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1908 and today is based in Wauwatosa,
Wisconsin. Briggs & Stratton engines are commonly used on lawnmowers, as well
as pressure washers, electrical generators, and a wide variety
of other applications. Their original cast-iron engines were known for their
durability, but the company's success was established following the development
of lightweight aluminum engines in 1953. The aluminum engine was the perfect
solution for the recently invented rotary lawnmower due to its lighter weight
and lower cost. The company has developed a good reputation because of its
independent central services distributors (CSDs), low cost replacement parts and
well designed service literature.